Biodiversity Northern Ireland

Sand martins - an iconic visitor with the quarrying industry

They are one of the first spring migrants to appear, arriving between mid-March and mid-April to breed, before moving south from late July to September to winter in sub-Saharan Africa. Sand martin’s diet comprises of insects, feeding on the wing by catching flies while in flight. Sand martins are attracted to quarries and sand pits where stockpiled faces and spoil heaps provide suitable nesting sites. They will also utilize specially designed artificial nest banks. Sand martins are listed on the Amber List of the UK birds of conservation.  Current factors affecting the species are droughts in wintering grounds in Africa and loss of nesting sites and young broods as a result of habitat destruction/ disturbance. 

 QPANI play a big part in sand martins breeding safely and increasing their populations to withstand any future threats or declines. 

QPANI Biodiversity Officer has produced guidance and training for quarry operatives to protect this iconic species. Please contact Laverne Bell if you would like a copy of this material.